48 Hours in Newport

Newport is nothing if not an oasis. Cobblestone paths lined with unique shops, life-altering eateries, buildings steeped in history, miles of coastline that'll leave you feeling brand new. This Classic Coast is infused with a little bit of everything, and all of it is unforgettable. Who says you can't see and do it all? Your next 48 hours says otherwise.

DAY 1

KICKSTART YOUR DAY

From rich buttermilk pancakes to savory omelettes and breakfast burritos bursting with fresh ingredients, Newport is home to some of the most indulgent breakfast dishes around. Start your day at Belle's Cafe at Newport Shipyard for some of the best pancakes in town with a side of harbor views (open seasonally), or head to Rosemary and Thyme Cafe for a crave-worthy, some might say life-changing, artisan breakfast sandwich.

ON THE SHORE

There's a reason people travel from all over to experience Newport's 3.5-mile Cliff Walk. It's where the serenity of salt air and crashing waves meets the marvel of Gilded Age architecture. It's also where total invigoration meets utter relief.

CLASSIC FLAVOR

If you're hungry for classic New England flavors, we've got you covered. Head to The Black Pearl for a cup of world famous clam chowder. Opened in the 1920s, some might say it's kind of a Newport institution. Or walk a few steps next door to Clarke Cooke House, another Newport staple, and savor oysters on the half shell caught straight from local waters with a seaside view.

EXPLORE DOWNTOWN

Walk it off along Bowen’s and Bannister’s Wharves where you'll find cobblestone paths lined with a mix of local boutiques, exquisite galleries, eclectic artisans and more. Pro tip: Exploring is best done with a treat in hand. Head to the Coffee Grinder at the end of Bannister's Wharf and take it to go, or lounge in an Adirondack chair facing the harbor before your shopping continues.

ON THE WATER

You didn't think we'd let you visit the Sailing Capital of the World without earning your sea legs, did you? Climb aboard a legendary America's Cup 12 meter and help raise the sails as you head out through the harbor.

SIP WITH A VIEW

A quick ride to Goat Island (don't worry, you can drive or walk) will land you at Scarpetta, the trendy restaurant located at Gurney's Newport Resort. If you're lucky enough to visit when the weather is warm, head outside to their waterfront dining area for a specialty pre-dinner cocktail alongside breathtaking views of the Newport Bridge and sailboats dotting the harbor.

SAVOR

French influence meets American industrialism at Stoneacre Brasserie in Washington Square where a small, ever changing menu boasts intense flavor and centers around local farmers, butchers and fishermen. Looking for something with a lengthy list of options? Head down the street to Brick Alley Pub, where their extensive menu offers a little bit of everything. Pro tip: Don’t skip the nachos, they’re award winning.

DAY 2

DIVE INTO LOCAL FLAVOR

Make your way to Bellevue Avenue for a taste of history and local flavor. Before a day of exploring, grab a bite to eat at Cru Cafe, a favorite among both locals and visitors. This cozy cafe is known for a seasonal menu with local ingredients. Pro tip: Breakfast is served all day and it's B.Y.O.B every day (just the way it should be.)

JOURNEY BACK IN TIME

Take a stroll down historic Bellevue Avenue to experience life of high society in turn of the century America inside the former summer "cottages" of America's wealthiest. Head to The Breakers, a 70-room (yes, 70) Italian Renaissance-style palazzo and the largest of the Newport Mansions. If time permits, continue your Gilded Age adventure down the street to Marble House or The Elms.

RELAX AMONG THE VINES

Exhale. Your next stop is among the vines at Newport Vineyards, Newport’s local winery located in Middletown. Take a tour to learn about the winemaking process followed by a tasting. More of a beer person? Head over to Taproot Brewing Co. located on the same grounds as the winery. When you’ve worked up an appetite, delight your taste buds in their farm-fresh menu.

REACH NEW HEIGHTS

Take your two-day escape to new heights when you revel in sweeping views of Newport at a rooftop bar. The Rooftop at The Vanderbilt or Top of Newport at Hotel Viking are among favorite spots to savor the best views in town with a specialty cocktail in hand. (Note: Open seasonally).

DINNER WITH A TWIST

Settle into the oldest tavern in America for a taste of 350 years of history with a modern kick. At White Horse Tavern, you'll find a seasonal menu crafted with locally sourced ingredients, not to mention multiple roaring fireplaces and tales of a haunted past. For an eclectic offering, head to Salvation Cafe, a vibrant eatery decorated with local thrift shop finds and boasting dishes ranging from Asian and Indian to Mexican and Spanish.

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Brittany Lauro is the Social Media and Content Manager at Discover Newport. You can probably find her on Cliff Walk with her dog, Dusty any time of year, or with a glass of wine in-hand on a seaside deck somewhere.